Everton are keen on signing Japanese midfielder

Honda, 27, has returned to Premier League radars by impressing at the Confederations Cup but is also being tracked by AC Milan.

And it now appears he could move to Everton as they prepare for the possible loss of Belgium midfielder Marouane Fellaini.

His contract at CSKA runs out in December, meaning he could be available for a cut-price fee in summer or on a free in January.

Earlier this week Honda told the Japan Times that he fancies a move to a big European club, saying: ‘I don’t know where I’ll be taking the next step yet, but I know I’ve got a chance [to play for a big club]. I have until August so I’ll wait and see.

‘If I go to a big club, I’ll become an infinitely better player. The improvement I’ll make then will be anything but minor.

‘I’m the type to soak up everything and anything in my surroundings, and if I play with better players, I’ll get better. It’s how I’ve been able to get this far in my career.’